Last month we shared that NFF was awarded $1 million as a partner with the University of Maryland School of Medicine. The HRSA grant is part of a community-based effort to engage community outreach and health workers, social support specialists, and others to increase vaccine access for the most vulnerable communities. Through high-touch, on-the-ground outreach strategies they will educate and assist individuals in getting information about vaccinations. “These awards will enable trusted, community-based organizations to use strategies tailored to the populations and areas they know best to address persistent racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic health inequities.” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.
NFF received funding to mobilize Family Peer Specialists (FSP)s in three states – Maryland, Delaware, and West Virginia – who will connect with families on a peer-to-peer level to address COVID hesitancy. These FSPs will answer questions, provide community education and help make vaccine appointments for individuals. NFF is working with our affiliates – Champions for Children’s Mental Health in Delaware, Maryland Coalition of Families in Maryland and Mountain State Parent-Child and Adolescent Network in West Virginia - to reach and engage high-risk, unvaccinated families in their states. Our affiliates will collaborate with regional and local partners to ensure a broad geographic reach with the goal of getting as many people vaccinated as possible.
NFF will also be conducting a national campaign to encourage vaccination. Please look for posts on our social media channels in the coming months to share with those in your community.
